What is UL 969?

What is UL 969 – The Standard for Marking and Labeling Systems?

This standard pertains to adhesive-backed labels that are used for permanent product identification. These labels are typically described as nameplates which are applied to finished devices, appliances or equipment and include rating information, instructions or schematics.

Within this standard, unprinted label materials, over laminates, and printing inks along with certain printing processes are covered and are called “marking and labeling systems.” The acceptability of a label system or material is based on the particular requirements in the standard covering the end product and are based on specific uses and surface substrates to which the labels are applied.

What this means to Electronic Imaging Materials:

As a label converter,EIM has two UL files—beyond being able to print the UL Mark—one for blank labeling components that customers can buy to print their own UL labels and one for preprinted UL labels that we print for customers. We selected a range of labels with pressure-sensitive adhesive for each file and designated specific exposure conditions covered under Section 7 of the UL 969 Standard. Those conditions include the minimum and maximum temperature ranges for those materials when used indoors and/or outdoors. We also have some materials that can also handle occasional exposure to lubricating oils, exposure to high humidity or occasional contact with water. Like most converters, we do not offer any label materials that are intended for hazardous locations; typically end-users would have to apply for this type of certification or have EIM apply for them.

UL does annual audits of our UL materials and this includes having EIM print sample labels and then we send them on to the UL testing labs for thorough evaluation. These samples will be applied to some of the surfaces listed in our files, changing up the material and surface combinations that are tested each year. The labels will then be exposed to water, convection ovens and humidity chambers as well as rub and scratch tests, UV light, low temperatures, and lubricating oil. All the while, UL will be looking for indications of loss of adhesion or print. The goal of these inspections is to make sure the label materials comply with the limitations set forth in our UL files. Because EIM holds true to the storage and shelf life recommendations of our label products, we have never had any UL sample rejections.

What this means to our Customers:

You will have access to prequalified UL Recognized materials to use on your products. This can save you a whole lot of time and money, avoiding the need to apply to UL for your own label recognitions. You have the assurance that these products will work within the exposure conditions listed in our files and there is clear traceability with every label order you receive. If you allow EIM to print your labels for you, we can include the UL Mark (logo) on your labels with simply a signed / stamped UL drawing or a page from your UL “Follow-up Service Procedure” that describes the label.